The Mirror says United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has made the Bosnian international his top choice to replace David de Gea but the Potters want a massive fee for their bargain capture from Portsmouth.

Stoke turned down £12 million from Chelsea a year ago and Begovic’s value has soared since then as his stature and temperament put him above his peers.

Boss Tony Pulis signed Jack Butland from Birmingham City as long-term insurance cover against Begovic leaving at some stage, but Britannia Stadium sources claim there is no deal in place or price agreed for their number one.